The Red Panda Conservation Breeding and Augmentation Program at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling has been selected as one of the top three finalists for the 2024 WAZA Conservation & Environmental Sustainability Awards, presented by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. From 2022 to 2024, nine captive-bred red pandas—seven females and two males—were released into the Singalila National Park in West Bengal. Notably, three of the seven released females have successfully given birth to five cubs in the wild.
PNHZP, in collaboration with the Wildlife Wing of the Government of West Bengal, spearheads significant habitat restoration initiatives within Singalila National Park and the Darjeeling division. This commitment transcends mere restoration, as the zoo also engages in essential research on the Red Panda, partnering with distinguished institutions such as CCMB, IISER, and WII.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park exemplifies a pioneering spirit in habitat restoration, forging essential collaborations with various institutions and the government of India. Between 2022 and 2024, the park accomplished the ambitious task of releasing nine captive-bred red pandas—seven females and two males—into the pristine wilderness of Singalila National Park in West Bengal. This initiative represents a significant advancement in wildlife conservation efforts.
Moreover, the zoo's unwavering commitment to safeguarding endangered species is also illustrated by its cutting-edge Biobanking and Genetic Resource Facility. This facility carefully preserves the gametes, tissues, and genetic material of red pandas and other endangered species, guaranteeing the crucial resources necessary for future conservation initiatives.
Formerly known as the Himalayan Zoological Park, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park was established on August 14, 1958, in Darjeeling through a collaborative effort between the Government of India (Department of Science and Technology) and the Government of West Bengal (Department of Education). As the largest high-altitude zoo in India, PNHZP is a beacon of hope for conservation efforts, renowned globally for its successful breeding programmes for endangered species such as the red panda, snow leopard, and Tibetan wolf, all representative of the rich biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas. PNHZP made history as the first zoo in India to successfully reintroduce red pandas into their natural habitat. The park also engages visitors and local communities through educational initiatives, emphasising the importance of preserving the Himalayan ecosystem for future generations.